Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment in Florida

Certain prescription drugs can be highly addictive and must be used with caution and close medical supervision.

Medications for pain, anxiety, or sleep disorders can lead to dependency in a matter of weeks if misused or taken for extended periods. Even when taken as directed, the body can quickly adapt, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effect—increasing the risk of addiction.

What Is the Most Addictive Prescription Drug?

Unfortunately, there isn’t just one.

The most addictive prescription drugs can vary depending on the individual and context of use. These drugs are widely recognized for their high potential for misuse and addiction:

1. Opioids

Oxycodone, codeine, and hydrocodone have been commonly prescribed painkillers since the 1990s. The increase in opioid use can be attributed to numerous factors, including a rapidly aging population, an increase in people experiencing chronic pain, and aggressive marketing and distribution of opioid medications throughout the U.S.

Patients can safely use opioid painkillers under the close supervision of a physician and for a very short period. However, opioids have a very high potential for addiction and dependency. Long-term use as a solution for chronic pain can significantly raise the risk of developing an addiction. 

Common signs of opioid dependence include pinpoint pupils, drowsiness, or frequent flu-like symptoms.

2. Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines (benzos), commonly marketed as Valium and Xanax, are widely misused. 

This class of drugs interacts with a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which reduces brain activity, creating a sense of calm.

Benzodiazepines are prescribed to manage anxiety and sleep disorders, treat seizures and seizure-related medical events, and as a pre-surgery anesthetic. 

Like opioids, benzos can be effective when administered with clinical support. Unfortunately, an estimated 44% of people within specific populations develop a dependency due to its high potential for addiction.

Those addicted to benzos may experience drowsiness, poor coordination, or memory problems.

3. Stimulants

Common prescription stimulants include dextroamphetamine (Adderall) and methylphenidate (Ritalin). 

Stimulants are typically prescribed for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), sleep disorders (narcolepsy and insomnia), depression, and eating disorders.

Stimulant drugs like Adderall have a high potential for requiring prescription drug addiction treatment. Not only do they cause a euphoric response by dramatically raising dopamine levels, but they also increase norepinephrine generation. Norepinephrine is a neurotransmitter that influences focus and response time. 

Most people who use stimulants find that their concentration improves, and they feel sharper and more alert. Adderall and Ritalin misuse is highest among college students who use them as study aids.

Unfortunately, long-term misuse of stimulants can cause neurotoxicity, a nervous system dysfunction caused by the introduction of natural or artificial toxins. Neurotoxicity inhibits normal neurotransmission, potentially leading to mental health disorders and cognitive decline. 

A stimulant addiction can cause increased alertness, talkativeness, or decreased appetite.

Identifying the signs and symptoms of prescription drug addiction early can be crucial for effective treatment. Symptoms to watch for include:

Physical

• Sudden weight loss or gain
• Changes in hygiene or grooming habits
• Frequent headaches
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Constipation
• Changes in sleep patterns
• Slurred speech
• Impaired coordination

Behavioral

• Erratic behavior
• Mood swings
• Increased secrecy and lying
• Isolation
• Visiting multiple doctors to obtain multiple prescriptions
• Disinterest in work, school, or social activities

Psychological

• Increased irritability
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Forgetfulness
• Confusion
• Trouble concentrating
• Unexplained periods of euphoria or excessive energy

Social

While physical, behavioral, and psychological signs are the most common indicators of a potential prescription drug addiction problem, some individuals may show social signs as well.

• Sudden strained relationships with family, friends, or colleagues
• Unexplained financial difficulties or borrowing money frequently
• Avoiding social gatherings or previously enjoyed activities

If you suspect someone may be abusing prescription drugs, approach them with care and encourage them to seek professional help. Treatment and support are available to address addiction and aid in recovery.

Breaking free from prescription drug dependency is a vital step toward reclaiming your life.

At Beach House, our comprehensive detox and prescription drug addiction treatment programs are designed to help you safely manage withdrawal symptoms and reset your body’s reliance on medication.

Why You Should Detox from Prescription Drugs

Detoxing from prescription drugs is crucial for many reasons. 

It helps the body reduce reliance on these medications, preventing health issues from long-term use and resetting tolerance levels. This process not only clears the mind and stabilizes emotions but also breaks the cycle of addiction, allowing individuals to regain control. 

As a leading medical detox center in Florida, our team can help you effectively manage withdrawal symptoms, making it safer and reducing health risks. It’s a vital first step before more personalized long-term treatment, showing a commitment to change and aiming for a drug-free, healthier life.

How to Detox Your Body From Prescription Drugs

Detoxing from prescription drugs involves several key steps to ensure a safe and effective process.

Here is how we support and guide your detox at Beach House:

• Initial Assessment: Thorough evaluation of your health history and specific needs.
• Medical Supervision: Around-the-clock monitoring to manage withdrawal symptoms and adjust treatments as needed.
• Personalized Detox plan: Customized approach to detox, including medications and therapies to ease symptoms.
• Transition to Rehab: After detox, we will review our prescription drug addiction treatment plans and help you make a smooth transition into an inpatient or outpatient program.

Detoxing from prescription drug dependency should always be done under the care of experienced medical professionals.

Rehab for Prescription Drugs

Prescription drug rehab at Beach House offers various specialized programs to assist individuals in overcoming prescription medication addiction. 

• Our inpatient treatment center involves staying at a treatment center for intensive care and therapy. It provides a structured environment with round-the-clock support for those seeking focused treatment away from home.
• Our specialized therapy programs include dual diagnosis treatment, medication-assisted treatment, individual therapy, a family program, and more.

Each program provides unique support and treatments to address different aspects of addiction and promote successful recovery. All programs focus on long-term recovery and provide options for continuing care.

 

If you or someone you love is living with an active prescription drug addiction, we can help.

Our commitment to personalized care and evidence-based treatments ensures a supportive environment for recovery. From therapy to medical interventions, each aspect of our drug rehab programs is tailored to the individual’s needs.

Beach House Center for Recovery is a prominent substance use disorder treatment facility in Florida. We prioritize successful outcomes through tailored treatment programs that cater to individual needs, emphasizing collaboration with patients for the best approach. 

As a federally certified Opioid Treatment Program, we adhere to the highest standards set by SAMHSA, ensuring stellar reviews, regular on-site visits, and the ability to administer appropriate medications for comprehensive MAT plans.

Contact our admissions counselors to learn more about our Prescription drug rehab programs.